Habitat Suitability Index Model for Brook Trout in Streams of the Southern Blue Ridge Province: Surrogate Variables, Model Evaluation, and Suggested Improvements.
Abstract
Data from several sources were collated and analyzed by correlation, regression, and principal components analysis to define surrogate variables for use in the brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) habitat suitability index (HSI) model, and to evaluate the applicability of the model for assessing habitat in high-elevation streams of the southern Blue Ridge Province (SBRP). In all data sets examined, pH and alkalinity were highly correlated. Our major objective was to explore relations among these variables and such readily obtainable information as stream size, order gradient, and elevation to determine whether some of the more easily measured features can be used as surrogate variables for application of the brook trout HSI model in the SBRP. Our second objective was to evaluate the overall applicability of the model for brook trout in SBRP streams.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA323029
Entities
People
- A. D. Lemly
- Christopher J. Schmitt
- Parley V. Winger
Organizations
- United States Fish and Wildlife Service